Milford Sound Kayaking FAQ

Do I need to know how to paddle?

No previous paddling experience is needed for some trips and other trips do require some previous experience as well as a minimum fitness and ability level. Before each trip a comprehensive instruction session is provided to all paddlers, no matter what previous experience they have had.

What level of fitness is required?

Paddling is a physical activity, but does not require a high level of fitness. The trips are designed to provide an enjoyable recreational and environmental experience – it is not a race!! If you can walk for over an hour you should have no problems. Some calm days you will hardly notice that you are using your muscles.

What is the minimum age for all trips and what is the guide to paddler ratio?

The minimum age for all trips is 14 years old, and the ratio is always 1 guide to 8 (or less) guests.

What boats do we paddle in?

Sea Kayaks – They are designed for open water paddling, so are very stable and very waterproof, keeping the paddler dry and surprisingly comfortable. There is always the possibility of getting wet so a spare set of clothes to change into is recommended for your return.

Is Kayaking a Good Winter (April –October) Activity?

It may be a bit colder but there are many reasons why kayaking is a great addition to your winter Milford visit plans. Our kayak trip providers list a few reasons:

“More settled weather conditions usually result in very calm water – ideal for exploring Milford from a sea kayak.

Less motor boats cruising Milford. More peace and tranquility – just the splash of our paddles.

More photo opportunities often mirror like reflections of famous icons like mile high Mitre Peak.

Less sandflies and often none at all. Let’s face it; this would make your day in paradise even better!”

Do we get a boat each?

Depends on the kayaking option you choose. Kayak experiences with Southern Discoveries are in single kayaks.

Longer guided paddling trips with Rosco’s Milford Kayak are conducted in double kayaks (for 2 people). This is to allow paddlers to travel faster and experience more of the fiord ( 2 people generally paddle faster than 1). Another advantage of using double kayaks is the increased stability and comfort. There are generally four double kayaks (8 people) in a group with one guide in a single kayak.

Do we need any specialist paddling gear?

All paddling gear is provided including thermals and waterproof paddling jackets. Ask your guide, if you have your own thermals (polypropylene) and prefer to use them.

How often do kayak trips go out on the fiord?

In summer there are trips that leave early in the morning and late in the afternoon. In winter this is reduced to one morning trip a day.

The morning trips are designed to capitalise on the calm waters first thing in the day. The afternoon trips make the most of the breezes that occur later in the day, either kayaking in protected waters or starting the trip out in the fiord and riding the wind and waves back to the kayaking base.

Milford Sound Experiences

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